There are no limits to daredevilry, and Estonian slacklining (kind of tightrope walking, but with a difference) sensation Jaan Roose has just proved that again. On Monday, September 15, he became the first person to balance on a slackline (special rope) stretched over the Türkiye’s Bosphorus Strait, walking from the Asian side of Istanbul to the European side.
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According to news reports, the three-time world champion in slacklining showcased his incredible balance and nerves of steel to cross the breathtaking 1,074-metre slackline hanging 165 metres above the water, completing the epic journey in just 47 minutes, all while negotiating 21 km per hour winds. This daring feat by the Red Bull athlete was dubbed the “Continental Pass”.
The achievement marked the first time a person has crossed from Asia to Europe on foot on such a high altitude, adding to the significance of the event, which was supported by Türkiye’s Transport and Infrastructure Ministry and the General Directorate of Highways.
Explaining the technical challenges of the crossing, Roose said: “The rope is about 1,074 meters long, but it sags in the middle. The rope weighs a few hundred kilos, and the tension changes with the wind. In the middle, there is a 35-40 metre sag, and we have to make sure the rope is properly tightened before I start walking.”
Does he fear heights?
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Despite the dangers, Roose admits that fear is an essential part of his process.
“I have a fear of heights, but that fear is necessary. It helps me improve my technique and stay safe. I need to be afraid of falling so that I can ensure my safety.
“In a way, everything is shaped around this fear. Managing that fear, both mentally and technically, is crucial to slacklining at this level.”
